Although small in size, termites are destructive pests that can jeopardize the structural integrity of your home. Statistics show that termites and other subterranean pests are responsible for roughly $30 billion worth of damage each year.
And if you experience termite damage, you can expect to pay around $3,000 in repairs (national average). Thankfully, though, there are simple steps you can take to discourage termites in your yard and around your home.
Store Firewood Off The Ground and Away from Your Home
If you plan on storing firewood, make sure it’s off the ground and away from your home. Firewood is delicious meal for termites, with these tiny pests digging their way through the ground to reach it.
If you store it off the ground, however, termites will have a harder time reaching it. Consider investing in a storage shed specifically for firewood to discourage termites
Cut Back on Mulch
You should also use less mulch around your foundation. Too much mulch creates an ideal environment for termites and similar subterranean pests.
There’s nothing wrong with adding a small amount of mulch to plants and flowers, but you should keep it to a minimum, especially if you’re dealing with a termite infestation.
Fix Water Leaks
You might be surprised to learn that water leaks can attract termites.
If there’s a leaky faucet on the side of your home, it will saturate the ground with moisture while attracting termites and other pests in the process.
Check for water leaks both inside and outside of your home, and if you find any, fix them ASAP.
Get an Inspection
Of course, you should also consider hiring a professional pest control company to inspect your home for termites.
It typically takes between 4 to 8 years for termites to cause structural damage. So as long as you have your home inspected on a regular basis, you can prevent severe damage from occurring.
Seal Entry Points
Have you inspected your home for cracks and crevices through which termites could enter? If not, you should.
Entry points such as these should be sealed to prevent subterranean pest damage. A simple tube of caulk is often all that’s required to seal entry points. And once they are sealed, termites will have a harder time getting into your home’s foundation.
These are just a few simple steps you can take to protect your home from termite damage.
The Woodsman Company offers tree planting, tree pruning and shrub trimming, tree removal and stump grinding as well as a tree wellness program.
If we can help with any of your tree care needs give us a call at 512-846-2535 or 512-940-0799 or
Thanks for the tip about mulch! We were debating adding more mulch to our backyard around some trees, but that has me second guessing the decision….
Thanks for the heads up that termites cause structural damage after 4 to 8 years. Since you suggested to get an inspection to find out and get rid of termites at a home, what qualities should one look out for before hiring one? I was thinking of having my sister’s house inspected for them since she just moved in recently. With your advice, her home can last longer. Thanks!